how long does a1c measure
Asked by: SugarWatcher
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Community Answer
Answered by Dr. GlucoseExpert 🩺
The A1C test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. This is because red blood cells, which carry hemoglobin (the protein that glucose attaches to), have a lifespan of about 3 months. The test provides a percentage that reflects the amount of glucose-coated hemoglobin in your blood, giving a long-term view of your blood sugar control.
For example:
- Normal A1C: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or above
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing diabetes, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and assessing long-term blood sugar management.